Unwind and Reconnect: A Long Weekend at Congham Hall Hotel & Spa with My Teenage Daughter

While some may dread the thought of a long car journey, I see it as a golden opportunity to bond with my teenage daughter. Our nearly four-hour drive to Congham Hall Hotel & Spa in Kings Lynn was filled with a delightful mix of musical numbers from “Heathers” and relaxing Ibiza chill-out music. This set the perfect tone for our weekend getaway at the luxurious country house hotel nestled in the picturesque Norfolk countryside.

This trip marked our first mother-daughter retreat. Previously, I would escape with my sisters or friends, but now that my daughter is old enough to enjoy spa amenities, I wanted to share with her the importance of self-care and relaxation. Our adventure began as we pulled up to the stunning white Georgian building of Congham Hall, its elegance standing proudly against the bright blue sky.

Arrival and First Impressions

Congham Hall boasts 31 individually designed bedrooms and suites, and our first-floor room overlooking the gardens and fields did not disappoint. The freestanding bathtub in the bedroom particularly delighted my daughter, fulfilling her long-held desire to luxuriate in such a tub. After a warm welcome at reception and a quick guided tour of the hotel’s drawing rooms and restaurant, we couldn’t wait to dive into our spa experience.

Spa Bliss and Gourmet Delights

Donning our robes, we headed straight to the spa. The indoor pool and thermal suite were perfect for an initial dip before dinner. My daughter, a former avid swimmer whose routine was disrupted by the pandemic, rediscovered her love for the water. Watching her swim brought back cherished memories and highlighted the importance of taking time to unwind.

The view from the pool area, with sun loungers lined up under the warm sunshine and guests relaxing in the outdoor hot tub, was delightful. The spa exceeded my expectations for a small country hotel, and a stroll through the gardens and orchard provided the perfect pre-dinner walk.

Dining at Congham Hall was a delight. The separate vegetarian menu offered my daughter plenty of options, although she opted for the tofu version of fish and chips both nights. Meanwhile, I enjoyed the pork belly the first night and grilled fillet of bream the second night. The hotel’s executive chef, James O’Connor, draws inspiration from Norfolk’s abundant produce and has a team of nine chefs, many of whom he has personally trained.

Pampering at The Secret Garden Spa

For those seeking additional pampering, The Secret Garden Spa is a must-visit. I indulged in one of their Elemental Herbal Facials, a tailored treatment where the therapist selects the best products for your skin concerns based on a questionnaire. The facial deeply cleansed, gently exfoliated, and included a wonderful foot massage while the face mask worked its magic. This serene experience left my skin glowing and refreshed.

Three Lessons Learned During Our Getaway

While most mothers might not consider a spa break with their teen, here are three valuable lessons I discovered during our first weekend away together:

1. Creating a Perfect Environment for Conversations

Relaxing in the pool, sauna, and hot tub created an ideal setting for meaningful conversations. Away from screens and distractions, we talked more freely and connected on a deeper level. The serene environment encouraged open communication, allowing us to share thoughts and experiences without the usual interruptions.

2. Embracing Individual Rhythms

It’s okay to let teens sleep in. Initially, I was stressed when my daughter didn’t wake up early for breakfast. However, I soon realised that this break was as much for her as it was for me. Letting her enjoy her sleep allowed her to recharge, and I found joy in my early morning walk through the fields. Our days started much better when I embraced our individual rhythms.

3. Rediscovering the Joy of Play

Despite being taller than me now, my daughter is still young at heart and loves to play. Seeing her have fun in the water and on the garden swing reminded me that relaxation and play are equally important. Allowing her to enjoy nature and have fun helped her unwind and brought out her playful side.

Final Thoughts

Our weekend at Congham Hall Hotel & Spa left us both relaxed and ready to tackle the final weeks of school before the summer holidays. My daughter loved the experience, and so did I. This trip has inspired me to plan more mother-daughter getaways in the future.

For the ultimate luxury experience, consider booking one of Congham Hall’s five Orchard Cabins. These architect-designed suites, named after the different apple varieties grown around them, offer an unparalleled level of comfort and elegance.

Exploring Norfolk

Norfolk is an ideal location for a luxurious getaway, offering a mix of sandy beaches, nature reserves, historic houses, and vibrant market towns. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Norfolk has something for everyone. Our weekend at Congham Hall Hotel & Spa was a perfect blend of both, leaving us with cherished memories and a renewed sense of connection.

Take the time to plan a retreat with your teen. You might be surprised at how much you both gain from the experience. Congham Hall Hotel & Spa provided the perfect setting for us to unwind, reconnect, and create lasting memories.